Search and menus

Search

Topics menu

You are here:

Competition Bureau and Public Works and Government Services Canada join forces to help prevent cartel activity

OTTAWA, September 9, 2013 — The Competition Bureau and the Department of Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) intended to strengthen the prevention, detection, reporting and investigation of possible cartel activity, including bid-rigging, for procurement processes and real property transactions that fall under the responsibility of PWGSC.

This agreement, the first of its kind, highlights the commitment of the Government, through the Bureau and PWGSC, to take steps towards eliminating illegal cartel activity, maintaining competition in the marketplace and saving taxpayers’ money.

As part of the MOU, the Bureau and PWGSC agree to share information relating to procurement processes and real property transactions by way of collaboration in the areas of enforcement, education and awareness. By working together to share resources and exchange knowledge, both organizations will benefit from each other’s expertise and will enhance their ability to achieve their goals of preserving and promoting fair, efficient and competitive processes.

The two organizations will also collaborate in training and awareness programs to educate relevant stakeholders and PWGSC staff on how to detect and prevent cartel activity.

The Competition Bureau, as an independent law enforcement agency, ensures that Canadian businesses and consumers prosper in a competitive and innovative marketplace.